How To Change Someone Who Is Laying Down

Changing a diaper for a loved one can be a scary, uncomfortable, and awkward experience. We hope that through this blog we can relieve some of that stress and provide tips and tricks to ensure you and your loved ones are cared for and comfortable during this process.

One of the first things you will want to do is make sure you have all the necessary supplies prepared ahead of time. Have a readily available and dedicated set of supplies for your loved one.

Supplies Needed

1. A fresh premium quality diaper
2. A clean pair of disposable gloves
3. Cleansing wipes such a body wipes or baby wipes
4. A plastic bag (small garbage bag) to dispose of the soiled diaper and wipes
5. Barrier cream and/or powder

It is very important to make sure that the soiled garments are removed from the individual immediately. If a patient is left in contact with urine and feces for a long period of time the skin can become irritated. Checking to see if the diaper is soiled on a regular basis is important for maintaining healthy skin. Many diapers on the market will include a convenient wetness indicator that will let you know when the diaper has been soiled.

Before starting, make sure that your hands have been washed with warm water and soap. Put on a pair of disposable gloves once your hands are dry.

What To Do

Make sure the patient is comfortable and laying with their back flat on their bed. Undo the tabs of the soiled diaper and gently tuck the diaper under their hip on one side. With one hand on their hip and the other on the shoulder, roll your loved one away from you onto their side. Now that they are on their side and the diaper is under the hip on one side, you should be able to pull the diaper away from them. Roll the diaper up and secure it shut with its tabs and then place it into the plastic bag.

Next you will want to use your previously prepared wipes and clean your loved one. Remember to clean the area around both the front and back. You may need to roll them from one side to the other to get to areas you cannot reach. Remember to do this slowly and gently to minimize discomfort. Once done, use the same plastic bag from earlier to dispose of the soiled wipes. This is also an ideal time to check for bedsores if your loved one is bedridden. Catching them as early as possible is important for treating them.

Finishing Up

Lastly you will want to apply a barrier cream and/or powder. Barrier creams are important in preventing irritation from incontinence products and bodily fluids. Once the barrier cream has soaked in, place the diaper’s smooth and flat under one side of them. You can then roll them towards you and position the diaper under their other hip. Pull the front of the diaper up between their legs, smooth it out, and fasten the tabs to the desired position and tightness.

You then want to place the soiled gloved into the plastic bag, tie it up and discard it.

Supplies To Keep In Mind

InControl Diapers carries a great lineup of products to help you care for your loved ones, including premium quality diapers such as the Elite Hybrid. This diaper is one of the best on the market today. Featuring a hook and loop tabbing system along with a taping guide and a wetness indicator, it is the perfect diaper for making the lives of those who take care of others easier.

Both the Abena Wipes and the Abena Zinc Ointment are also great tools to have in your lineup. The Abena skincare line of products is environmentally friendly and scent-free, making them perfect for even the most sensitive skin. Abena wipes are extra large and completely unscented with no perfumes or fragrances. They’re even 100% compostable for those who are eco-friendly!

Things To Remember

It is important to remember to treat those with a disability or the elderly with dignity. To treat them with respect and give them privacy and compassion when they need it. They are in a vulnerable state and are trusting you with the task of helping them get changed, relying on you to help them and care for them. Making sure you are feeling confident, comfortable, and relaxed while changing someone will make a difference in how positive the outcome of this routine is.